What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral Neuropathy is damage to nerve endings in a person’s periphery (or extremities). These nerve endings (sensory receptors) are what give us sensation and when they are damaged we lose normal sensations. Abnormal sensations can lead to feelings of tingling, numbness, burning, etc.
There are many causes for Peripheral Neuropathy. Each can affect the peripheral nervous system by disrupting the information from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body.
Causes
- Diabetes (Type 1 & Type 2)
- Chemotherapy (certain types)
- Chronic Back problems (e.g.: spinal stenosis)
- Auto Immune Disorders
- Statin Drugs (Cholesterol Pills)
- Congenital (Genetic)
- Alcoholism
- Shingles
- Sometimes idiopathic (which means we don’t know)
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary from person to person; ranging in severity. You may experience more than one of the following.
- In the feet and hands:
- Numbness or tingling
- Burning pain
- Pain
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Problems Differentiating Hot/Cold
- Hyper sensitivity to touch
Our Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Plan
Patient Education
Understanding why you have it
How bad it is, Small fibre or large fibre, Possible out comes and more.
Physical Assessment
Exam will give us an indication of the severity through results on a scale of 0-74.
Treatment Plan
Individual plans are set up according to results and health history.
Follow-up
Re-exam at specified intervals to make sure symptoms are not returning.